Hertha BSC has recently declared a German international as a role model – a move that instantly sparked discussion. The 24‑year‑old midfielder, who has been part of the national team since 2024, is meant to show younger talents how to bounce back after a heavy defeat. The squad currently sits 7th in the 2. Bundesliga, 51 points, 14 wins, 9 draws and 11 losses from 34 games, with recent form LWLLD.

Why is the international now a role model?

Coach Stefan Leitl stresses that after the 6‑1 loss to Arminia Bielefeld on 17 May 2026 the team urgently needed a new benchmark. The international, who contributed to Hertha’s 47 goals scored and 44 conceded this season, embodies the mix of experience and drive Leitl wants to see in the training camp. "He showed that you can climb back up after a low point," Leitl said at the Berlin stadium.

How does this affect the squad?

Players react in varied ways. Captain Lukas Rupp calls the international "a true leader who always gives his all in training". Young forward Niklas Stark adds, "I want to learn from his example how to keep nerves in critical moments." The coach hopes the role model will inspire not only in practice but also on match days, helping the team close the 19‑point gap to league leaders FC Schalke 04.

What does this mean for the season ahead?

Hertha BSC begins the training camp next week without a final kit design – Leitl now demands creativity. The focus is on rebuilding confidence and tightening the defence, as the 44 goals conceded remain a concern. If the role model fulfills his duties, the squad could use upcoming fixtures to reverse the current form (LWLLD) and shrink the distance to the top spots.

What are the next steps?

Leitl plans to appoint the international as captain for the first training drills to immediately influence the group. Individual talks with the youngest players will also be arranged to set personal targets. The upcoming mandatory matches against 1. FC Köln and VfL Bochum will serve as a test for the new approach. Should the team turn the recent form around, the role model could quickly become a decisive factor.